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The Technically Human Podcast

The Algorithm as Witness: Reimagining Holocaust Memory in the Digital Age

Oct 18, 2024
Todd Presner, Chair of UCLA’s Department of European Languages and Transcultural Studies, delves into the intersection of ethics and technology in Holocaust memory. He discusses how digital tools are reshaping historical interpretation and argues for a new ethical framework for remembrance. The conversation explores the role of algorithms in shaping collective memory, highlighting projects like Dimensions in Testimony. Presner emphasizes the importance of balancing personal narratives with digital archives to enhance engagement while maintaining authenticity.
01:19:00

Episode guests

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Quick takeaways

  • The transition from survivor narratives to digital testimony necessitates a critical examination of how technology influences our understanding of Holocaust memory.
  • Collaborative efforts in digital humanities allow for an enriching exploration of Holocaust narratives by incorporating diverse insights and innovative methodologies.

Deep dives

Exploring the Digital Age and Holocaust Memory

The conversation starts by examining the shift in Holocaust memory as we transition from the survivor generation to a digital context. As survivors age, access to their testimonies will increasingly rely on digital technologies, highlighting the need to address how these tools shape our understanding of history. The integration of computational methods prompts essential inquiries about ethical considerations in studying Holocaust memory, including how to avoid reducing survivors to mere data points. This shift calls for a reconsideration of how we engage with history, emphasizing the importance of ethical frameworks in utilizing technological advancements.

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